The Influence of Alcohol on Blood Pressure


C o n c l u s i o n : P u b l i c H e a l t h I m p l i c a t i o n s

This report shows a clear association between alcohol consumption and blood pressure. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) rose as weekly alcohol consumption rose, with an average increase of nearly 5 mmHg in those drinking above 42 (women) and 50 (men) units/week, compared to those who drank between one and seven units/ week. However, a J-shaped association between SBP and alcohol was only seen in women. The risk of hypertension in women was lower amongst those drinking 1-7 units/week than in non-drinkers and in those drinking above those levels. In men no increase in risk was observed in those drinking up to 14 units/week.

These results need to be taken into account when making recommendations on how many alcoholic drinks a hypertensive person should have when weighing up risks an benefits. It is clear that a reduction in alcohol intake reduces blood pressure and hence cardiovascular risk.

In this study, the risks of hypertension for both men and women were highest in those who exceeded weekly guidelines, especially if they also exceeded daily limits. Hence heavy drinkers should be encouraged to reduce their amount of alcohol consumption and would benefit from a reduction to between one and seven units/week. However, stopping drinking altogether may not be beneficial.

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Source: Daily Dose
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